You should avoid faded navy blue or black pants. These make you look unprofessional and this appearance would give a poor first impression.

Shoes and Socks

Shoes and socks should be predominantly white. They should be clean and gently worn.

If possible, avoid shoes with color logos or designs.

To keep clean, you could avoid wearing your officiating shoes outside the facility.

Referee Equipment

Official Patch

A referee is given a patch to wear on the right side of the shirt. This is given by USA Volleyball.

This patch certifies you to officiate.

This patch is attached near the upper right area of your uniform shirt.

Some organizations require officials in volleyball to wear certified patches

Whistle

The whistle is one of the most important pieces of your equipment.

The whistle is used to call captains over for the pre-match coin toss, to start and end warm up periods, and to start and end rallies.

The whistle is your means to get attention of the participants.

Each official has a whistle and a lanyard. Have an extra available in case of emergencies.

Both should be discreet in color. You don't them to be unusual looking or brightly colored that would bring special attention to them.

Brightly colored whistles and lanyards can be used on special occasions.

Sanction Cards

Officials in volleyball should carry sanction cards with them. Have both red and yellow cards available in case of match control issues.

Flipping Coin

A flipping coin will be used during pre-match protocol. Each side of the coin should be clearly identifiable by site and name. After the toss, place the coin in the side pocket corresponding to the team that serves first. This is a great way to remember which team will serve first to start the match.

Officials in Volleyball Flipping Coins

Watch or Timing Device

Officials of volleyball need a watch or timing device is needed to time the warm ups, time outs, and set intervals during the match.

DCR

The most important item is your copy of the (DCR) Domestic Competition Regulations.

Become a student of the DCR and be able to quote passages. Be familiar with the location of rules in the book. Over time, you'll come to see that rules for volleyball are consistently miss understood.

Net Chain

Officials in volleyball need a net chain to measure the height of the net. Net height should meet the requirement prescribed in the official volleyball rules.

Measure the net before the match. This will give you credibility before the match begins.

Ball Gauge and Ball Pump

The ball gauge is used to accurately measure the pressure in the game ball. If the pressure is too low, use a hand pump to add air to meet the specifications in the rules.

Line Judge Flags

Line judge flags aren't always provided by the tournament host. It's a good idea to have your own set handy.

Line judges, especially junior players, communicate much more effectively when using flags.

Volleyball Line Judge with Flags

Small Bag

Officials in volleyball should have a small referee bag. This is a great way to carry all this equipment.